Delicious and Easy Brazilian Chicken Stew Recipe
Looking for a hearty and flavorful dish that will take your taste buds on a trip to Brazil? Look no further than this Brazilian chicken stew recipe! As a chef specializing in Brazilian and American cuisine, I can assure you that this stew is the real deal. Packed with tender boneless skinless chicken thighs, canned plum tomatoes, fresh herbs and spices like garlic, ginger, and sweet paprika; this will be one of the best Brazilian chicken recipes you’ll ever try.
What makes this Brazilian chicken stew so special is the addition of unsweetened coconut milk, which gives the dish its signature creaminess and richness. The use of lemongrass and jalapeños adds just the right amount of heat and tanginess, while fresh cilantro provides a pop of freshness. The recipe is easy to make and perfect for a cozy night in or sharing with family and friends. I cannot recommend this dish enough – it’s truly an explosion of flavors in every bite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Picture yourself taking a bite of a delicious Brazilian Chicken Stew that satisfies all your flavor cravings – spicy, savory, and slightly sweet. Can you imagine how comforting it would be to eat a warm and hearty bowl of chicken stew on a cold and rainy day? That’s the kind of satisfaction this recipe brings, and I guarantee you will love it!
This Brazilian Chicken Stew recipe is easy to make but tastes as if you have spent hours slaving away in the kitchen. It’s packed with protein from boneless skinless chicken thighs – one of the juiciest cuts for making chicken stew. It’s also filled with nutritious veggies such as onions, canned plum tomatoes, garlic cloves, and ginger root that provide various vitamins.
If you are a spice lover, then this recipe is perfect for you! The stew is loaded with spicy jalapenos along with Brazilian paprika that gives heat to the dish without being overwhelming. The unsweetened coconut improves the sweetness level balancing out the spiciness giving you that perfect symphony of flavors.
Additionally, those who are new to cooking can start their journey with this recipe – it uses simple ingredients such as lemon wedges, fresh cilantro, and unsweetened coconut milk which are easily available at your local supermarket. You can also whip up this dish in under an hour with just one pot!
This dish is versatile! You may add different vegetables or even legumes like black beans for additional fiber intake turning it into a delightful pumpkin or bean stew. Those looking for subtlety may opt to use chicken breasts instead of thighs or even slow cook legs. This dish is perfect year-round – whether it’s chilly outside, hot or just raining cats & dogs. I assure you; you will love every spoonful.
In conclusion, there are so many reasons why you’ll love this Brazilian Chicken Stew recipe. The bold flavors combined with tender meat and healthy veggies create a hearty and satisfying meal with minimal effort. Give this recipe a try today and enjoy the perfect symphony of flavors that will make you crave it every time!
Ingredient List
Let’s get ready to create a delicious pot of Brazilian Chicken Stew! Here are the ingredients you’ll need for this flavorful dish:
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 yellow onion, finely chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups water
- 1 can (14 oz) unsweetened coconut milk
- 1 can (14 oz) canned plum tomatoes, drained and crushed
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro leaves, roughly chopped
Seasonings and Spices
- 1 tablespoon brazilian paprika
- 2 jalapeños, seeded and finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh ginger root, peeled and sliced thinly
Optional Ingredients
You can also include some optional ingredients that will help take your Brazilian Chicken Stew to a whole new level:
– Black beans – serving suggestion to add creamy texture
– Sausage – *add in during the cooking process
– Pumpkin – typically added in fall for a flavor twist
Make sure you have everything organized before starting the cooking process. Preparation is key!
The Recipe How-To
Now, let’s get to the exciting part: making the Brazilian Chicken Stew!
Ingredients
To make this delicious Brazilian Chicken Stew, we will need:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, chopped
- 2 jalapeños, seeded and chopped
- 3 cups water
- 1 cup peeled and thinly sliced ginger (about a 3-ounce piece)
- 1 can unsweetened coconut milk (13.5 ounces)
- 1 tablespoon sweet paprika
- Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
- Lemon wedges for serving
Make sure you gather all the ingredients before starting to cook. It helps to prepare them in advance, chop the onions, garlic, jalapeños, and ginger beforehand.
Step-by-step Instructions
Step 1 – First of all, we need to season the chicken. Mix the chicken with a tablespoon of fresh lemon juice and salt it evenly. Set aside whilst you prepare the rest of the ingredients.
Step 2 – In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat, heat the vegetable oil. Add the onions and sauté until it turns into a translucent color for about two minutes.
Step 3 – Once done add in the garlic, jalapeños and paprika. Then sauté for another minute or until fragrant.
Step 4 – Add in three cups of water to deglaze the pot while scraping any browned bits off the bottom. Then add in sliced ginger and chicken thighs.
Step 5 – Bring everything to a boil before reducing heat to low and simmering covered for about forty-five minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
Step 6 – Remove pot from heat and stir in unsweetened coconut milk. Put the pot back over low heat. Make sure the temperature is adjust so that it doesn’t boil.
Step 7 – Lastly, let your creation stew for another 5 to 10 minutes. This will allow carrying the broccoli all the way through and make the chicken even more tender. Don’t forget to taste and add any additional seasoning needed.
Optional Add-ins
Looking for ways to add more texture or protein to this stew recipe? You can also add black beans or diced pumpkin when adding the chicken thighs.
You can also switch up the chicken with sausage or use a combination of chicken legs and breast.
Conclusion
There you have it: a creamy and flavor-packed Brazilian Chicken Stew recipe. Don’t forget to garnish with cilantro and serve with lemon wedges for that extra zing. Let us know how it turned out for you!
Substitutions and Variations
Are you feeling adventurous in the kitchen? If so, here are some substitutions and variations that will take your Brazilian Chicken Stew recipe to the next level.
– Instead of boneless skinless chicken thighs, try using chicken legs or even chicken breasts. They will add a different texture and flavor to the stew.
– Replace the canned plum tomatoes with fresh ones. This will give your stew a brighter and more vibrant color.
– For those who don’t enjoy the taste of cilantro, use parsley instead. It’s a great alternative and adds its own unique flavor to the dish.
– Want to make your Brazilian Chicken Stew creamier? Try adding sausage or black beans. These ingredients will give your dish a heartier texture and added protein.
– Feeling festive? Why not add some pumpkin to the stew? It’s a Brazilian favorite and adds a sweet, nutty flavor to the dish.
– If you’re short on time, you can make this recipe in a slow cooker. Just throw all of the ingredients in and let it cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the chicken is tender.
– Don’t have coconut milk on hand? You can substitute it with heavy cream or evaporated milk. Although you won’t get the same coconut flavor, it will still be delicious!
Remember, cooking is all about experimenting and finding what works for you. Don’t be afraid to mix things up and try new flavors and techniques!
Serving and Pairing
Now that we’ve made this delicious Brazilian Chicken Stew, it’s time to serve it up and enjoy! One of the best things about this dish is that it’s quite versatile, in terms of how you can serve it. Here are some ideas to get you started:
Firstly, I recommend serving the stew with some freshly cooked white rice on the side. We Brazilians love our rice and beans, and this is a great way to incorporate that tradition into this non-traditional recipe. The rice will also help to soak up some of the delicious juices from the stew.
You could also serve the dish with a salad made up of fresh greens, such as mixed leaves or arugula. The freshness of the salad will be a great contrast to the rich flavors of the stew.
If you’re feeling adventurous and want to add another layer of flavor to the dish, consider topping it with some sliced avocado or serving it with some fried plantains on the side. These ingredients are commonly found in Brazilian cuisine and will complement the stew nicely.
Another great addition to this dish would be a slice of crusty bread or a piece of cornbread. Use it to soak up all that yummy broth – trust me, you won’t want to waste any of it!
In terms of beverages to pair with this Brazilian Chicken Stew, I recommend a light-bodied red wine such as Pinot Noir or a refreshing Caipirinha cocktail made with lime juice, sugar, and Cachaça (a distilled spirit made from sugarcane juice). These drinks will nicely balance out the spices and richness of the dish.
Now that you know how to pair and serve this delicious Brazilian Chicken Stew recipe, it’s time to gather your friends and family around the table and enjoy! Saúde! (Cheers!)
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
Brazilian Chicken Stew is a great dish to make ahead of time. The flavors meld together beautifully when the stew is left to sit overnight in the refrigerator. When you reheat it, the spices will have infused the meat and vegetables even more deeply, creating a richer taste experience.
To store Brazilian Chicken Stew, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply transfer the stew from the refrigerator or freezer into a saucepan or Dutch oven and warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
If you plan on making this stew ahead of time, it’s important to note that the sweet potatoes will continue to soften as they sit in the liquid. Consider slightly undercooking them so that they are just tender when you assemble the dish.
To give your leftovers a fresh touch, garnish each bowl with a fresh lemon wedge and chopped cilantro before serving. Fresh toppings add brightness and balance to the deep flavors of this soup.
One final tip: though Brazilian Chicken Stew can be made with any cut of chicken you prefer, boneless skinless chicken thighs work particularly well because their dark meat stays moist even after reheating. Enjoy!
Tips for Perfect Results
When it comes to cooking a Brazilian Chicken Stew recipe, there are some tips and tricks that can help you achieve perfect results every time. As someone who has been cooking this dish for years, I’ve learned a few things along the way that I’m excited to share with you. Here are my top tips for making a delicious and authentic Brazilian chicken stew at home:
1. Use boneless skinless chicken thighs: Chicken thighs are the best cut of meat for this recipe because they have more flavor and will stay tender and juicy throughout the slow cooking process. If you prefer chicken breast or legs, be sure to adjust your cooking time accordingly.
2. Don’t skimp on fresh cilantro: This herb is an essential ingredient in Brazilian cuisine and adds a bright, fresh flavor to the stew. Be sure to use fresh cilantro instead of dried for the best results.
3. Choose unsweetened coconut products: When using coconut milk or shredded coconut in this recipe, be sure to choose unsweetened varieties. Otherwise, your stew may end up too sweet and dessert-like rather than savory.
4. Adjust seasoning to taste: The flavor of your Brazilian chicken stew will depend on the quality of your ingredients and personal preferences. Adjust the amount of lemon juice, garlic, and spices according to your liking.
5. Add jalapeños for a spicy kick: If you like your stews with a little heat, add chopped jalapeños (with or without seeds depending on your tolerance) during the cooking process.
By following these simple tips, you’ll be able to make a flavorful and authentic Brazilian chicken stew that will impress your family and friends. Don’t shy away from experimenting with ingredients either! You never know what new twist could become the best Brazilian Chicken dish; so don’t be afraid to make it yours!
Bottom Line
In conclusion, this Brazilian chicken stew recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves bold and flavorful dishes. With its rich blend of spices, tender chicken thighs, and creamy coconut milk, it exemplifies the best of Brazilian cuisine. Plus, it’s versatile enough to be adapted to your preferences – feel free to add in your favorite vegetables or swap out the protein for chicken legs or breasts.
This dish is perfect for a cozy night in or for entertaining guests, as it can easily be made ahead of time and reheated when ready to serve. And with its use of fresh ingredients such as cilantro, garlic, and gingerroot, it’s a healthier alternative to heavier comfort foods without sacrificing flavor.
So why not give this Brazilian chicken stew recipe a try? It’s easy to follow, has plenty of substitute options, perfect for make-ahead meal prep, and guaranteed to delight any taste buds!
Brazilian Chicken Stew Recipe
Ingredients
- 1/3 cup gingerroot, peeled and thinly sliced
- 4 garlic cloves, chopped
- 2 jalapenos, seeded and chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon sweet paprika
- 2 tablespoons water
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 3 medium onions, coarsely chopped
- 2 cups canned plum tomatoes, coarsely chopped (drained, juices reserved)
- 1/2 cup unsweetened coconut milk
- 1/2 cup dry roasted peanuts, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup unsweetened coconut, shredded, plus more
- unsweetened coconut, for garnish
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped, plus more
- fresh cilantro, for garnish
- 3 cups chicken stock
- salt & freshly ground black pepper
- 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1 1/2-inch pieces
- lemon wedge, for serving
Instructions
- In a food processor, pulse the ginger with the garlic, jalapeños, lemon juice and paprika until finely chopped. Add the water and process to a paste.
- In a large saucepan, heat 2 tablespoons of the oil until shimmering.
- Add the onions and cook over moderate heat until softened, about 8 minutes.
- Add the ginger paste and cook until it begins to brown, about 3 minutes.
- Add half of the tomatoes along with the coconut milk, peanuts, 1/4 cup of the shredded coconut and 2 tablespoons of the cilantro and cook until slightly thickened, about 5 minutes.
- Scrape the sauce into a food processor or blender and puree.
- Return the sauce to the saucepan. Add the stock and the remaining tomatoes and 2 tablespoons of cilantro and bring to a boil.
- Season with salt and pepper and simmer over moderate heat until reduced to 5 cups, about 20 minutes. Keep warm.
- Meanwhile, in a large nonstick skillet, heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of oil until shimmering.
- Season the chicken with salt and pepper and sauté over moderately high heat until golden and cooked through, about 10 minutes.
- Add the chicken; season with salt and pepper.
- Spoon into bowls and garnish with coconut and cilantro.
- Serve with steamed rice and lemon wedges.
Add Your Own Notes
Nutrition
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Dora
Dora is a chef well-versed in Brazilian and American cuisine. After a hard day's work in the kitchen of her restaurant, she finds the time to jot down recipes for her food blog. Her recipes are sure to delight foodies everywhere, as she strives to make each one unique and enjoyable to read.